Snow: Unemployment call centers closed

The state Employment Security Department closed its two call centers Thursday that accept unemployment insurance claims because of the snow, a spokeswoman said.

The centers are located in Seattle and Spokane and employ a total of about 400 people. The weather is making it hazardous for employees to travel to and from work, department spokeswoman Sheryl Hutchison said.

The centers usually accept calls Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Because of the closures, a person who wanted to apply for a claim Thursday can tell an office representative that he or she tried to contact the office during the closure.

The claim will be dated for Thursday, Hutchison said.

Unemployed workers also can file claims online at www.esd.wa.gov. That Web site also should let people know when the offices reopen.